Treacherous snow squalls, winter weather persists in Ontario this week
Some communities across Ontario have seen more than 100 cm of snow from a powerful, lake-effect snow event, and the squalls will continue for some areas as we begin the new work week.
The hardest-hit communities will catch a break as the winds shift across the region, moving the snow squalls away.
We’re still looking at the potential for 50-75 cm of additional snow accumulations for spots through Tuesday––and that’s before our next opportunity for widespread snow arrives by the middle of the week.
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Prepare for more challenging driving conditions. Keep an eye on the radar and keep up-to-date with the latest highway conditions before you head out.
Cottage country gets a much-needed break
Chilly air pouring over the Great Lakes for the past few days has given rise to multiple, potent snow squalls throughout the region. Echo Bay, Ont., reported 136 cm of snow as of 3 p.m. on Sunday.
Winds shifting around out of the northwest has allowed the Lake Huron squall to become the dominant feature of the snowbelt regions. That snow squall will meander over this area through Tuesday morning, bringing hefty snowfall totals to parts of the region.
Highways 21 and 401 around London are at risk of being impacted by heavy snow and gusty winds, which will make road conditions quite treacherous for travellers and commuters.
Farther north, another squall will be taking aim at the Collingwood area on Monday. This squall will be more disorganized than the ones we've been seeing, but will still bring impactful snow and wintry conditions to Highway 26.
40-60 km/h winds will also lead to whiteout conditions, making travel even more difficult.
Snow squall warnings are in effect for regions around Lake Huron and south of the Georgian Bay. Heavy snowfall rates of 5-10 cm an hour are possible. Remain alert for potential traffic jams, road closures, and impassable roads. Power outages are also possible; over 25,000 customers are without power in and around the Muskoka region as of 7 a.m. Monday.
The shift in winds will give cottage country a brief, but much-needed, break from the snow after being blasted by potent snow squalls over the weekend. The break won't last too long, though, as winds will shift back to where they were over the weekend, bringing the dreaded snow back to the region.
WATCH: Snowy sights around Ontario as snow squalls deliver
Snow, winter weather move into GTA, Ottawa mid-week
A clipper will tap into this moisture as it moves into the Great Lakes region by Wednesday, drawing in some additional moisture from the lakes to bring the first widespread snow of the season to the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and Ottawa.
Snow will begin early Wednesday and continue through Thursday for all of southern and eastern Ontario.
While exact snow totals are unknown at this time, drivers on all major roadways in the regions should prepare for wintry conditions during their commutes.
Since this will be the first major snowfall for many, remember to give yourself extra time to get to your destination and maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles. Consider postponing any unnecessary travel if possible.
WATCH: Ontario's 2025 Winter Forecast
Stay tuned to The Weather Network for the latest forecast updates in Ontario.
